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Citalopram (Celexa®): Basic Information

Citalopram (US brand name Celexa® and generic) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Here is basic information about this medication.

FDA-approved indications

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

Dosage

Starting dose: 20 mg/day

Maximum dose: 40 mg/day

Maintenance: 20–40 mg/day

General instructions from the Prescribing Information: Take once daily, in the morning or evening, with or without food.

Note: In contrast to the Prescribing Information, we recommend that citalopram be taken after eating a full meal.

Dosage forms and strengths

Tablets (Celexa® and generic): 10 mg, 20 mg scored, 40 mg scored

Oral solution (generic): 10 mg base/5 mL

Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.


Related Pages

SSRIs and QT prolongation

Which antidepressants are better than the SSRIs?

Common and important drug interactions

Escitalopram (Lexapro®): Basic Information (Free)

Antidepressants: Index and Links


References

Prescribing information for citalopram (Celexa®)


Copyright 2016, Rajnish Mago, MD. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced in any form without express written permission.

Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided as general education for medical professionals. It is not intended or recommended for patients or other laypersons, or as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients must always consult a qualified health care professional regarding their diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare professionals should always check this website for the most recently updated information.

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